Geisinger warns public of potential measles exposure

Danville, Pa. — Geisinger is notifying the public of a potential measles exposure at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville.

Geisinger became aware that a visitor with a high suspicion of measles was present on the GMC campus between 1 p.m. on Aug. 12 and 9 p.m. on Aug. 13. The individual was present in the GMC Emergency Department waiting room, GMC Pediatric Emergency Department, Janet Weis Children’s Hospital second floor, GMC Atrium and Fluoroscopy during that time.

Out of an abundance of caution, anyone who was in these areas during the identified time period should be aware of the potential exposure and monitor for symptoms. Individuals who have questions or concerns should contact their primary care physician for guidance.

“Our top priority is always to keep our patients, staff and the community safe,” said Dr. Michael Fitzpatrick, Geisinger’s Central Region chief medical officer. “While the risk for people who are immune to measles is low, we want those who may have been on campus during this period to have the information they need to understand their risk and take appropriate precautions.”

People are generally considered at low risk for measles if they:

• Were born before 1957

• Have previously had measles

• Have received two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine

Anyone who has questions about their vaccination history or immunity should contact their primary care physician.

Unvaccinated people are at significantly greater risk of contracting measles following an exposure. Immunocompromised individuals may also be at increased risk, even if they have previously been vaccinated, and should contact their primary care physician for guidance.

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness. Symptoms typically include fever, cough, runny nose and red or watery eyes, followed by a rash that generally begins on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.

Anyone who develops symptoms consistent with measles should call their healthcare provider before going to a physician’s office, urgent care clinic or emergency department. Calling ahead allows healthcare teams to take appropriate precautions to protect other patients, visitors and staff.

Geisinger is implementing additional precautions at public entrances at facilities throughout its Central Region, which includes Columbia, Montour, Northumberland, Union and Schuylkill counties.

Patients and visitors will see signage and may be asked questions related to potential measles exposure, symptoms and vaccination status. These precautions are being taken to help protect patients, staff, visitors and the broader community while Geisinger continues to monitor the situation.

Geisinger is working closely with public health officials and will provide additional information as appropriate.